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Saturday, 19 July 2014

Prince George's First Birthday Portrait Released & A Birthday Celebration with The Queen

The Palace released the first of three portraits tonight to mark the first birthday of Prince George. The photo depicts the adorable Prince toddling towards the camera with his arms in the air wearing blue overalls.

Clarence House Twitter Feed

The first photo was published in time for the Sunday papers whilst the remaining two will be released on the eve of the princely birthday - Monday night. It is believed they are both family portraits. They were taken by Press Association photographer John Stillwell, who also took official photographs of Prince Harry in Afghanistan. Speaking about George Mr. Stillwell described him as "very lively and very sure of himself and confident - a very determined young boy. I'd have to say he looks like his dad".

The exhibition offers a fabulous day out providing fun for all ages. Visitors have the opportunity to spot species from around the world, fluttering above you and among the dense foliage. It's very much a learning experience for children as they hear about the metamorphosis of these creatures and experience more than fifty butterflies and moths from around the world. Below we see a little girl getting close to a blue morpho butterfly, which is among the largest in the world with a 5 to 8 inch wingspan, and comes from the jungles of Latin America.

Natural History Museum

Our regular readers will recall William, Kate and George were photographed leaving the exhibit after the photos were taken. With many thanks to Emily Rickard for sharing her photos and letting royal fans in on the news early (I think you had all guessed :))

Emily Rickard Twitter Feed

The venue was specifically chosen because The Duchess of Cambridge is patron and it seemed an excellent way to support the museum; the location was ideal offering a picturesque background. As with previous official photos of Prince George, William and Kate have opted for a relaxed, casual feel, rather than the formality of the Palace. Choosing the butterfly exhibit meant George most likely had a very fun morning - and I'm sure a less stressful experience was had by all (one imagines encouraging a one-year-old to look at the camera could prove a little challenging).

The photo proved incredibly popular with the press. Below we see tomorrow's Sunday Telegraph.

The Sunday Telegraph

The Sunday Express offers a souvenir pullout.

Sunday Express

How will Prince George celebrate on Tuesday? A Daily Mail story claiming the Middleton family already hosted a Peter Rabbit themed party at their Bucklebury home has been denied by reputable media sources. In fact, William was at a polo match when it allegedly took place.

'The Sunday Express can exclusively reveal the Queen will be guest of honour at Kensington Palace on Tuesday as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge throw a private party for close friends and family to mark their beloved son's milestone. A Kensington Palace spokeswoman said of the birthday "The family are going to be marking it privately with close family and friends at Kensington Palace".

'Surrounded by his family and his parents' closest friends, Prince George Alexander Louis of Cambridge will be feted at a discreet celebration on Tuesday to mark the first anniversary of his birthday. Toddling across the floor and displaying his latest trick - opening and closing doors - the future King will be ready for a spot of mischief. '

The celebrations are in stark contrast to Prince William's first birthday. He was left with his nanny at Kensington Palace while his parents undertook an eighteen-day tour of Canada. They called to wish him Happy Birthday: "All I could hear was a few squeaks," Charles said at the time. It must be very difficult for any parent to miss such an important occasion. One gets the impression hands-on parents William and Kate will want to be there every step of the way and plan to put George and family life first, before royal duties.

It's interesting to see some of William's first photos as George approaches his first birthday. British Royals kindly shared an excellent video which shows how everyone celebrated William's first birthday from afar.

George looked very cute in a navy polo shirt and blue and white stripe overalls by Petit Bateau with reverse straps (with thanks to Prince George Pieces). The US site still has the dungarees in stock for $50. They're described as "Baby boy short cotton cloth overalls with Oshkosh stripes. Patch kangaroo pocket on the front center of the apron. Petit Bateau sailboat print lining". It appears George wore the brands Short-Sleeved Cotton Bodysuit underneath his overalls. The little Prince also wore his Early Days 'Alex' Pre-Walker Shoes.

We'll be back on Monday night with the two remaining portraits along with the latest news. What do you think of Prince George's first birthday portrait?

Kind of agree actually. All the beautiful background going to waste focusing on the ground and bench. Bad glow/lighting. And the window one. Kate's smile looked forced, the hue is awful etc. The best photo I think is as you say spontaneous or the first one Michael took. Maybe not the best technically but at least it captured the spirit. Really hope the other 2 will be better.

Agree. As a photographer, the photo is full of flaws. The lighting is flat, and the background is completely distracting, not complimentary. There is no point in going to a butterfly sanctuary to just have a boring bench in the background. George should be looking at the camera and walking toward the camera, not looking toward the side and walking toward the side. I'm surprised a professional took it and found it to be acceptable to release.

Reality, I think it's lovely to see a child captured in a spontaneous moment and in a natural setting rather than looking like one of the props. I've seen birthday photos that look staged and it takes away from the child.

@Realtytvkids Did you ever think that this is what W&K wanted. And remember Kate is a great photographer herself. I would think if they did not like the photo they would not have released it. Why be so critical.

I agree royalfan. I think rather spontaneous than staged. But they must have seen the rubber mat floor. They could have chosen to have him walk in the grass or something. That's my only problem. And I still think George us cute. And as Anon 03:19 said, maybe they wanted it this way,,

@bluhare. Hello. I have no idea how Kate looks at herself as a photographer. I have not posted here in a while. I do read daily though. Hope you are well. Life is very busy for me right now. So I get a few seconds and I read the blog but I do not have the time to post.

@bluhare You know I always post using my name. I do not like people hiding behind anonymous. If you have something to say post your name to it, don't hide behind anonymous. Hope I did not disappoint you...lol

i noticed, too. but isn't that always what happens with little ones? makes me feel a bit better about not obsessively changing my little guy's shirt when it gets something on it. its grew to see kids being kids. i'm glad!it looks like the strap on his overalls might be twisted, though. the butterfly pattern is showing. not the stripes (like in the picture). interesting.

Royal Fan: I agree with you. Charlotte, "Blogger of the Year" nomination for you, for this blog. !!! That aside, Royal Fan, as you mentioned that photo with William and his mother is so apropo for this moment in time and I like it allot. How old was she there, 20 years old? I sometimes can't believe that he had her only for 14 or 15 years of his life. I am hoping that his having a family is helping to fill some of the void left with her passing.

I think the goal was to catch him in action, which they did beautifully. As far as backgrounds go, I'll take a real one like this any day compared to other options. It certainly doesn't take away from the significance of the photo. My guess...the picture was taken with William or Kate kneeling and encouraging him to walk towards him/her.

YEEES, these walkers show they are in heavy use. The imperfections of the picture makes it real, that an every day little boy reaching his first birthday! Mileage in the walkers, the drool on the overall makes it cuter than a professional set up.If you are looking it very closely, W&K want's it this way. In NZ the play date, in Au. the zoo was all a photo call in a natural setting of a little boys life, which the parents shared with us and we got to be part of.Happy birthday Prince George. You are a real cutie!

I really intended my post as a joke--a play on the PRE-walker label, since George is obviously really stepping out now. However, on second examination, the shoes do look a bit scuffed--and his little foot looks a bit tightly stuffed in them, too! Maybe he'll get a pair of real WALKERS for his birthday!

Just too cute for words. I love that in this photo we see that great smile of his: just as priceless as when we first saw it in New Zealand when his Mom, the Duchess cuddled him on her shoulder and it turned out to be her favorite photo. His father did say earlier in the week that he was walking and here we see him in all in glory, and his famous "waving arms. Happy 1st Birthday, Prince George.

Enjoyed the article. Thank-you, royalfan. Some of those anecdotes were kind of creepy. I had. read of what George V's sons went through, and then there is the movie. I am reading a book about Queen Victoria's daughters and had heard of her aversion to breast-feeding . Didn't most upper-class mothers employ wet-nurses then?One story that bothers me is the continuation of the "no nannies ever" myth concerning W&C. As I remember, the palace statement included the words:" AT THIS TIME." Somehow those words have been dropped from tabloid stories, possibly to justify gossip about William's indecision and "just like you" stories. I imagine that anecdote will be remembered the way the tabloids presented it, not as how the palace rep said. The same thing,although not controversy-inspiring, with George's party announcement. The palace rep was clearly quoted as saying " close FAMILY and friends" in several sources. The correspondents transposed that to the more familiar " close friends and family." One did quote correctly. It is how history gets mangled. It is also why I reserve a corner of my mind that says, "Nice story, but how much of it is true?"Probably should have stopped with the thank-you, royalfan. Once my buttons have been pushed- not by you, rf! - it is hard to turn off. There are some skilled button-pushers (don't mean bottom pushers, Esti) on this comment section, both among regular and intermittant posters. I will mind my buttons more carefully in the future.

He's adorable! William was, too!! It looks as if George is bigger or farther along than William was at that age, but then the caption for William's photos say it is two months before his first birthday. Could there be that much difference in two months? I think George will grow to be large and muscular, maybe more like Harry? It will be interesting to see!! These are just observations; no negative meanings. I think they both are very cute and bright at their respective ages in these photos.

He's changed so much! He looks even more like William did as a youngster now, very similar shaped head. I agree with some of the other posters that it would have been nice to have captured the flora etc. in the photo. (if not the butterflies) The outfit he's wearing doesn't lend itself to easy nappy-changing, unless there is a very discreet fastening underneath. (usually you can see the 'poppers')

I agree more scenery would be nice. Maybe the next photos coming soon will have more. I think they must have just liked the way he was walking in this photo. (He may not be walking on his own full time.) They may have liked the expression too. Selecting a photo can lead to a lot of compromises.

Such a sweet smile on little George.I think it's quite nice that the photos aren't formalised and "a natural moment" has been caught on camera.These are the photos we all treasure of our children.As for a nicer backdrop and some butterflies? Well they may appear next.....?And I still think this little boy is looking more like his grandpa Michael every day. The eyes are complete give away.

What's touched me most, are the photos of William, Charles and Diana.Wouldn't it have been truly magical if this family had stayed intact?

Thank you Charlotte for posting all this wonderful additional information.You are a gem - as always.

Helen, I share your sentiments exactly about the Wales family...it would have been truly magical. I adored Princess Diana and still get teary-eyed when I see photos like the ones above. Despite all the "yuck" in the marriage, I think she was an absolutely wonderful mum. I think Charles has blossomed into a wonderful father and grandfather. I am very grateful for the happiness in the family now. Every family has it's problems, but it seems the House of Windsor is in such a happy place right now.

Hmmm. I wonder whether the family intact would have been magical. Of course, one never wishes dissolution for a family; however, as dysfunctional as that family was from the outset (marriage for the wrong reasons where real love was not reciprocal and the Firm still bound in out-dated modes of interaction with their "subjects") we could be looking at a horror show that might have brought down the Monarchy. Throw in a beautiful rival for Diana, and she may not have been a warm mother-in-law. But that's all speculation. (Wouldn't mind seeing, however, what Jane Austen might have done with material like that. Or Oscar Wilde. Or Noel Coward. Hmmm.)

Philly- I am afraid the story of the mistress and the long-suffering wife (Diana's version) has been done and done. One such story from the Old Testament was the root of Middle East tension and politics today.

I think you are right - there was nothing magical about that marriage that I could see then I suspect the good parts we saw then were mostly smoke and mirrors. Not the stuff that dreams are made of

. Helen, the magical part now is how well William and Harry turned out, considering. But yes, it would have been nice to see that marriage turn into a happy ending. It just would have taken more alchemy than fairy dust.

@anon 23:14, it doesn't relate. This is the 2nd comment I've seen that doesn't relate. I had to comment about the other one, below, just couldn't help myself. Glad to see I'm not the only one here who noticed this one. Sigh.

Jenn, I believe philly was responding to Helen, who was commenting on photos Charlotte included of Diana and family. It was as much a part of this post as any other part of the post. And I was responding to both philly and Helen.Jenn, I seem to remember a certain discussion about David Beckham, involving a ride in a car. Did it relate? I am p r obably one of the biggest offenders when it comes to off-topic. Charlotte has been very kind, but I think also very wise to let this forum function as a community.

Florence, I think Charlotte is the blog monitor. Call me crazy, but it's her blog. :)

For some time now, this blog has included comments that are off topic (quite often not even anything to do with royalty) and Charlotte has been fine with it (I'm guessing since she posts the comments and hasn't objected...lol :)

My point is that no one should tell another poster what they should or should not say. Respond to the subject matter, but don't attack the person for saying it. Assuming comments are civil, everyone is entitled to express their opinion and free to share it.

OMG people why can't you be happy that we got new photo of George. Why do people have to be so critical. These photos were taken by a professional who knew what he was doing. And maybe this is how W&K wanted them taken.

He is a cutie pie. And thanks Charlotte for bring us these photo. Great job you do here. To bad some can not be happy but always have to be critical.

I agree, bluhare. People look at things with different perspectives. Nothing really mean was said.As far as the mat, instead of grass- one of my toddlers refused to crawl or walk on grass. A mat is a smoother surface for little feet. And ,unless the photographer lay on his belly and shot up, the ground is what you are going to see. I actually have a picture like that. It made my daughter look like a baby giant.It was kind of scary.

I love the photo of lil George! He is such an adorable little boy! Regarding the picture and some of the comments about the scenery, this is my personal opinion and what I think could have happened: I think that the photographer probably took many photos of little George, and I'm sure his parents reviewed all the pictures taken, and that this was the picture that they felt showed PG at his best (I.e. the walking, the smile). There might have been other photos with better scenery, but maybe those photos didn't showcase PG the way they wanted. Just a thought. I could be wrong.Either way, I love being able to see little George at his milestone. Happy Birthday Prince George!!!

Marg - Yes I understand the wobbvly grass not being optimal for toddler-walking. Haha, I can see a giant George and all the analysis about him being biggar and better than "regular babies". Haha...

Jenn - I think you might be right. And they made the right choice choosing to show him of rather than choosing the most professional looking picture... I think the photographer may have gotten a similar picture to the one of Will and Kate hugging at the engagement picture. That was a spontaneus one after they had finished shooting. I think this might be similar to that and the photographer took a chance.

What a gift. William and Kate shared a photo of their son, candidly taken of him walking. They must be so proud! We say often on this blog how much we'd like to see a glimpse of their private moments that mean the most to them and here we have one. Please folks don't spoil it by picking on the lighting and the background. Who cares? George is happy. George is healthy. George is walking and they let us see how excited he is about it. Not every great photo has to be perfect in every way! This is so nice of the Cambridge family, I can't believe some of the comments I read. Thanks Charlotte~ how do we nominate you?

And I dooooo love the candidly part of it! I don't mean to sound overly critical because I adore it!! Because of George and everything you just mentioned. And I would be happy to get some crappy phone-shots. Don't get me wrong. I am just puzzled by the "professional photographers" thought process... I understand that it would be really hard capturing such a lively child. But why not have him on the grass instead? And have the photographer more on the ground. Child photography 101 is to be on the ground. That's all I'm saying. Still adore the George aspect and am thankful to get a glimpse into their life. But maybe the money was not best spent on this photographer :P

Charlotte we all soooooooo APPRECIATE all you do. I know you must get tired. Take care of yourself. I hope you don't get boggled down by to much negativity. Oh and may I add to my comment.. George is SCUMPTIOUS!!!!! Like scones, cream and my homemade Ollie berry jam. Just like my boys were! Thank you my dear :)

I think the photo showed what they want to show. That George is walking on his own. It isn't the greatest photo but that may not be the point. Hard to get toddlers to do exactly as you wish.

It used to be that the best royal photographs were formal ones, and candids often weren't that good. There were some truly remarkable royal photographers out there - Beaton, who I thought was magical, Snowdon, Parkinson and Litchfield (Interesting that a couple of those were relatives.) In recent times though, the most interesting photos often seem to have come from tours and engagements. Cameras have improved enormously and it is much easier to take a candid than it used to be. Some of the photos on the Australian tour exceed any posed photo of George.

I always loved those photos of William, Charles and Diana. Especially the one of William and Diana. They were taken by Tim Graham, one of the best royal photographers of the Diana years who took both candid and posed photos of the royal family. I always like his work and Jane Fletcher's work much better even than those late glamourous photos of Diana which always looked just a little staged to me.

I think those photos of William and Diana were taken when William was about six months old in anticipation of the Australian tour which happened when he was ten months. I recall them being released earlier. He wasn't that different in size from George on the tour itself.

So far, I don't think we've seen a definitive photo of George. (See what tomorrow brings.) I was shocked at the bad lighting in the Michael Middleton photo, something even most amateur phtographers look out for, and wondered if it wasn't chosen because Lupo looked cute. We saw litle of George. The window shot looked a bit staged to me and too dark behind for Kate's hair. George's expression looking at Lupo was sweet, he repeated it looking at his dad in Australia. Hopefully, the family shots may show more of the butterfly exhibit, which this shot doesn't. But it does show that George is on his feet and ready to go, the point of the photo.

From his hands at birth, through his Christening pictures and in Australia and low, the outstretched arms are becoming a George trademark. A very cute chap.

Very well said Leo, I agree also.Bluhare, lol, I actually can see what you mean about Winston Churchill! And I also perdict he will have his Uncle's playfulness and temperment, what do you think bluhare? Just a feeling I have.

George is also a Spencer-red hair, remember? -how the heck would he get Harry's red hair? It is a Spencer trait. The Spencers and Churchills were related, I believe. He also has his grandpa's comb-over. ha! If you look at those side by side photos of George and young Charles, it is easy to see where he gets the size and shape of his head. Wherever Charles got it.As far as personality, I think George is just George.They didn't just pick a photo that resembled Wiliam (what is the point of that?) The photographer himself said he looked like William.Opinion is one thing; innuendo is another.

Harry actually reminds me of the Henry VIII. in "A Man For All Seasons." Thought Harry had taken up acting.

I think bluhare meant that Harry and George share the Spencer hair, if George's is red. Red hair requires genes from both parents, and Kate's hair often looks dark red in sunlight. Don't know if that's natural. But I am a former redhead, and my dark haired children have lovely red highlights. I hadn't thought of the connection of the Spencers and Churchills. Maybe George's face really is Churchillian!

Monica, that is so very sweet and touching of you. I actually used to sing this song when I was little. I learned it when I was in primary school when we lived in Scotland. Although now I can only remember the tune lol. Thank you also for writing down the words to it, I am going to write them down myself and see if I can sing it again. :)

The picture is adorable. I don't get some of the comments about thequality of the picture. He'a little boy taking some still wobbly steps . Thatis real. I much prefer that to some perfectly posed picture. He willhave enough of those in his lifetime.

George is such a little cutie!! I am loving the traditional clothes that Kate dresses him in. Both of my granddaughters wore those soft soled shoes, they are so much easier for those first steps then those hard soled ones I wore at that age.

There is something about George that tells me he is quite a hand full for this parents! I feel that his personality is more like his Uncle Harry than either of his parents, it will be interesting to see how they handle this in the future! I am really looking forward to seeing him grow and mature and develop his own wonderful personality.

Lol, how ironic, I just asked in a comment above if you agreed with me that George would immulate his Uncle Harry! Its like I got an instant answer lol (I obviously had not scrolled down to see this comment haha)! And I'm with you Bluhare, I am looking forward to their adventures as well, but I know you're right about the best not being public!

I think that all the *working* royals put family life ahead of royal duties! Will and Kate are not parents without a huge staff of people to help them. Putting middle-class values on them, is in opposition to their titles. They are not middle-class people who can be, mostly idle, taking care of baby George. That's everyone's dream...palaces, vacations, a home in the country where you can play house, and tell planes not to fly over. They are not only fabulously wealthy, they are royally privileged. They decree, and we follow whatever they choose to do; like it or not. They are not like us! These are kings and queens, and that is all we need to know, it seems they are saying.

Sigh, I wish these anonymous would claim their comment with a name. Personally, anon 16:20, I don't get this comment being on a post of Prince George's 1 year picture. It doesn't make any sense being on this particular post. Perhaps on 1 of the other posts, where we were actually debating (cordially) this topic of your comment. Idk, call me crazy, but you confuse me with saying this on this post.

I agree Florence. *SOME* of the Anonymous comments ("hit and runs" as I call them) have exactly that in mind. And it's easy since there's no history or accountability associated with an Anon post. That's the reason I wish some of the nice, regulars would pick a name.

Thank you, Charlotte, for a lovely post. Also thanks for editing out what may have been a duplicate message of mine. I was away from home, using a shaky connection, and am happy to see it posted at all. What fun it will be to see the other two photos, presumably with parents. Probably not Lupo in a butterfly exhibit!

Florence, you are so right! I should have just ignored it. Now I'm mad at myself for letting that comment get the better of me (actually, happened twice, I said something to another comment up above that was like this anon one, sigh). I need to ignore them in the future.Btw Florence, how are you doing? I missed seeing you comment recently, then again, I have been busy and have been catching up on the blog the last couple of days myself, maybe I missed your comments. Either way, good to see you my dear, hope all is well :)

Royalfan, I agree with the "hit and runs". So true! Simply stirrers! Jenn, I have reacted to comments like that so many times, but I am finally getting it. I think.. I find when the page gets 200 plus comments, it is hard to check back, as it takes so long. I do read the posts daily, but when they are so many, sometimes they all float into one, and of course some days are busier than others, so I have to force myself off haha Like now!!

Hi Florence, I hope I don't sound like a blog monitor here...lol...but I am just wondering.....do you check the "Notify me" box when you post? You just have to check it for one comment and every time there's an update in that thread you'll see the new comments in the email inbox you have associated with your Blogger account. (Not sure how it works for others, but that's the way it works for Bloggers.)

For us non-blogger subscribers, you can subscribe to comments using Atom at the bottom of the page. It also gives us nosy people the added advantage of seeing posts that Charlotte deleted. Sometimes that's not good for a person's health, though.

Think this photo was lovely and also think it was meant to highlight Georges physical precociousness. He IS ahead of the game--this photo was taken on July 2nd, just after his 11-month benchmark, and I really doubt that this was the first time George walked solo. So, George was up on his own two feet somewhere between his 10th and 11th month mark.

Physical precociousness is no guarantee of mental; nevertheless, it is looking good--and so is George.

P.S. to Kate. Time to get George some real shoes, the expensive kind that give him the ankle support he needs?

Absolutely precious! I did giggle a bit thinking of him possibly chasing after a butterfly charging down the path without a care in the world, but with great determination. He does seem like a feisty little one! He is absolutely adorable and I know William and Kate are very proud of him. I love that the photographer caught George in a natural moment and with such a sweet expression. He really is too cute with those chubby cheeks and sweet lips!

I hope the Cambridge family has a wonderful time celebrating little George. I hope they can enjoy the moment and the family and friends that will surround them. I would love to capture a glimpse of the Queen at the party watching her great-grandson. George is entering such a fun phase and it sounds like Mum and Dad will have their hands full during the toddler years. :) Thank you to Will and Kate for sharing such a sweet photo. I am eagerly awaiting the next photos to be released!

My sweet boy will also celebrate his birthday the same day as Prince George, so we having birthday preparations and excitement here as well! July 22 was a great day to be born! Happy 1st Birthday HRH Prince George Alexander Louis! Have a fun and happy day!

I can also see him chasing a butterfly or (more likely) walking towards William or Catherine kneeling beside the photographer. Such a precious moment and wow, he is early! You can really tell alot about his personality just from this firs year. I think his confidence will be needed in the future! Such an adorable litte (BIG!!) boy!

Thank-you, Charlotte. Lovely post.George walks so straight and tall. With determination and concentration erched on his little face.

The picture of Diana playing with a delighted William is beautiful. I thought Diana and Charles, especially Charles looked somewhat strained in the photo of the three of them. Both appear terribly thin. William, however seemed relaxed and happy, so maybe the photo session was getting a bit trying.

abc au states that Prince George will celebrate quietly at home at Kensington Palace with close family and friends. I wonder if family and close friends wouldn't be more accurate? Or maybe "close family" is meant. Interesting to me.So, no Middleton home party, with grandma Carole presiding. No trip to Scotland to visit great-granny.

If there is a "celebrate quietly at KP" story out there, it may be for the sake of Bucklebury residents. And I'm not joking. Imagine the photographers camped out hoping to get a glimpse of something...anything.

ps- Charlotte- Sorry, I missed your quotes about the "close family and friends." of course, you had it first. I will have to admit I skipped the quotes, because I thought they were about that horrible Peter Rabbit party story and I just couldn't take any more DM nonsense.I still think the "close family" part sounds odd. Is it possible the palace rep mis-spoke or was mis-quoted? Could the guest list be the same group as the christening? Left out a bunch of royals.

But....I am sure I saw Peter Rabbit sticking his head out of Carole's handbag?! lol Or was it Benjamin Bunny? I hope they cooked up a storm at KP and used some of their lovely and newly renovated function/dining rooms. I bet you Prince George got a handmade, wooden rocking horse for his birthday.. haha I would have loved to be a fly on the wall...

You may be right Royalfan, I didn't consider the amount of photographers that would swarm on that little village/town till you mentioned it. Oh, I definetly wouldn't want to live there, if that Peter Rabbit party is actually happening (which, I don't believe is true, but who knows, I could be wrong).

Marg, I am with you dear friend, the wording of that does seem backward to me also.

Thank-you, Jenn. The KP story is not just "out there." It was announced by a palace rep and posted in Charlotte's blog (. ha! I almost said "web."). That is why I was asking Charlotte if there could have been a mistake in the wording by palace or press.I hardly think the Queen would appreciate a Peter Rabbit theme.! ha.Hope George receives a rocking horse. He probably already has one.My girls had a broomstick type riding horse. My Mom had to put it up on the high shelf in the mud room where all the confiscated items went. They were using it to swat each other. A little siblingb rivalry there.

Ladies, the reality may be that the paparazzi would LIKE to be a fly on the wall, but instead they are more like a fly in the soup. Yuck. AND, no peaches and cream, at least not very much. I think the Bucklebury lass got a bit more soup (with the fly in it) than she had hoped for... aaahhhwww...

Close family makes sense when you consider how large William's family is. They kept the Christening small with close family as well. This party might include a few more family members with small children like Peter Phillip's family and the Wessex family (Zara was a part of the Christening) - but I can see why you might leave off the Yorks and the Queen's cousins. Too many people overwhelm the baby and you end up playing host to them, rather then focusing on the reason for the party. It would be awesome to see who is making the invitation list and who isn't.

This 20:34 comment was below my 17:59 original comment.Why would a22:52 comment replace it? It leaves my explanation hanging loose. I wouldn't mention something that seems petty, but it has happened multiple times and is rather confusing.

thanks, royalfan. u u. However, my comment was in the correct place at first. Next time around, it was down below. Goodness knows, I've commented enough to know where to reply. ha! And this problem just started happening the last few posts.

I have had the same thing happen, even though I pressed Reply right under the message I wanted to comment about. Also, once in a great while I don't know whether a message posted until I see it in print.

While cute, this photo underwhelms me (like the one took by Kate's father just after George was born). I think they wanted the world to "see" that he is walking, plain and simple. Would've loved one with him looking at the camera and a better background.

Thank you ever so much for helping us get a glimpse of Prince George, Charlotte. It is a beautiful post! And also thank you for the early pictures of Prince William. I love the carefree one of him and his wonderful mother Princess Diana. I think she did a wonderful job raising her two sons to be upstanding and compassionate men. Can't wait to see the other two pictures to be released. Thank you again Charlotte!

What a neat Post Charlotte - THANK YOU for all your hard work. Prince George is so precious and comes across as a very confident toddler. I really appreciate that Catherine and William are sharing pictures of him, no matter what the context.

I have been following your posts since just after Catherine and Williams Wedding. I never posted anything myself until I got up enough "gumption" to place a comment on the last blog, however I couldn't figure out how to post under a name. I think I may have figured it out so No More "Anonymous".

Welcome Eva, so glad you figured it out ;), always nice to have a name to place with comments. Now that you've got it, I hope you keep commenting, its nice to have polite people in Charlotte's little blogging community. Take care!

Thank You All for your warm welcome. I feel that I know you all from reading your posts, at least to a small degree. I really enjoy following the Royal Family, and Charlotte's Blog enhances the experience. Thanks Again.

Sounds like you have a wonderful family, two and four legged, Marg. Not a productive weekend for us. Got busy and mucky puppy didn't have his bath. Don't think he minded missing it one bit. Very naughty little chap. Imagine George may be too.

Hi Esti, pets can be wonderful company and many do well in flats like our little spaniels but they do need time and attention and if you work, there has to be time to give them a walk in the evening and maybe have someone do it during the day. Also you have to decide what to do when you go on holiday and find someone who will stay or a kennel. Cats are a little easier if you like cats. I love both and always had them growing up, but no cats now, just dogs. But my little dogs are like cats LOL - they compete for who will sit on my lap and sometimes they are all trying to be on my lap at once!

I like the fact that Charles and Diana allowed the public a 'peep' into Kensington Palace in some of their photos. An interview with them was also recorded there, with Alistair Burnet, and a couple of books about their life published, with their cooperation, which showed them at home and on tour. There was also some footage of William and Harry shot there. I wonder if William and Kate will ever allow the public a glimpse into their home.

Anon 23:19, I liked the photos as well and I wish William and Kate would do something similar. Three plus years into their marriage and a baby, we have yet to see a single photograph from their home. I understand the likely reasons behind it, but I don't think it's the best policy in the long run.

I wonder where Jo and Esti are? Hopefully they have just been enjoying their weekend. I know they will be so thrilled to see little George when they have a chance to look!

Back to work tomorrow, ugh! I hope everyone has a happy Monday (if such a thing is possible lol)! After 10 PM here, goodnight everyone, see you tomorrow. Take care all! Maybe I will wake up to another wonderful post from our dear Charlotte ;)!

It occurs to me that in "three plus years into their marriage" W & C have yet to have a home to which anyone can be invited to take photographs. They have bounced around from rented residence to temporary quarters in KP and the Middletons while their London and Sandringham homes are being renovated. Plus, anyone who has ever renovated anything--even a single bathroom in a 600 square foot flat--knows that for the duration of the renovation one is "homeless."

philly, you have a valid point, but surely they could accommodate a cozy sofa shot of the three of them (for example), or even an outdoor, garden setting. C&D did exactly that, especially when the boys were younger. We saw many photos from KP, their KP walled garden, Highgrove and Balmoral (outside)... There are options to make it a little more personal.

I am sure they are very comfortable wherever they are regardless of how much renovating is going on. I have to admit though, I wonder why none of this was done before they marrried? Maybe it was just all planned this way on purpose.

As far as getting a glimpse into their home, I don't think it is going to happen. Being that they are so private with everything and how William hates the public anyways, it won't happen anytime soon. I think William will be an old man that could care less by the time anyone gets a glimpse at even a coffee table, lamp or couch.

With so much attention on the renovations at KP and AH and the estimated price, I can't see them having an interior photo shot. The nay-sayers would have a field day picking apart everything from price to Kate's taste.

I hope eventually they allow us a glimpse. But they may have chosen this location because Catherine is patron of the museum. Hopefully, the next photos will show more of the exhibit. It will be good publicity for the museum.

Why they can't release a few more photos in the series puzzles me though. Very stingy.

I agree London, it was lovely to get a glimpse into KP way back when! I think it would satisfy our sense of curiosity regarding their renovation. I remember Prince Frederick and Princess Mary showing their renovation to the world. It was lovely as they had (from what I can remember, correct me if I am wrong) renovated a whole palace, with significant taste and dignity, a blend between new and old. I wouldn't think that a carefully selected photography team taking a few photos "At home with William and Catherine" would be a security risk, but something that people would really appreciate. Or maybe that is just my imagination!

Florence: Yes, CP Mary and Frederik of Denmark showed the areas of the palace that are being used for offices and a few rooms that they have they option of using for private entertaining etc, however; the floors that they occupy as their living quarters were not shown and only when they were unfurnished. The only furnished area shown was Mary's office which was part of a photo shoot. In my opinion, they wanted to show case the art work of the Danish artists used and more importantly the use of modern / contemporary art in a space were "old world" artistry once stood.

The Cambridge's on the other hand guard their privacy so fiercely that it will be very extraordinary if they allow a photographer into that space.

Thank you Anon 06:42. I remember the art work and use of space and light was amazing and it was very interesting to get an insight into their thoughts behind their choices. I agree it would be lovely to see even a small sliver into the KP renovation, even if just the "official" areas.

A documentary was just made on the Haga "Castle" where Victoria and Daniel lives. They also just showed the official parts of it and left the private areas out of it. I think that is both a security issue but mostly this: Everything they do, wear etc is subject to the publics eye. I think they want to have a slice of privacy that people haven't seen.

The private areas of the White House are much less frequently photographed than during some previous administrations. We do not see them at all when there are young children living there. I think this is also a matter of both security and privacy; probably the Secret Service is very much involved in such decisions.

When I first started to post in here, I could not get the Name to work and ended up posting as Anonymous which might be the reason for some who do that in here. However, there is the written option that one may post as Anonymous if that is his/her desire. I must admit that it is easier to have conversations with those that have a name and results in "getting to know" everyone as much as that is possible on a blog.

So many of you are such keen observers and I would miss out on such things as drooling marks, scuffed up shoes, etc. So thank you again to all of you for your unique postings.

I, too, so enjoyed the photo of Diana and little William. Little William sure loved his Mum so much..that eye contact in that photo is just precious and along with his so cute happy smile. William was a beautiful baby boy. Grandfather Michael's photo of the three of them soon after his birth as the first official photograph in my humble opinion is beautiful with the setting. I must agree with the photographer of this current photo of little George that he does look like his father along with his Grandfather Michael's eyes, and his Uncle Harry's hair and mischievous look. Amazing that the little guy is opening and closing doors. He is a ball of energy and I bet he is non stop when he is awake.

hi charlotte love the pictures prince george is growing so fast maybe next time he will join his parents on annual Christmas the picture reminds me of uncle harry when he was first public appearance and his hair looks like his father looking forward next two pics

OH! I think there is a spell in the air and my posts don´t come out again or maybe an insinuation to say me :"cut the crap??"...This morning when I got up there were 57 messages on my input much time will needed to cacth up...

How very sad that Prince George's first birthday picture had to share the front pages with headlines about the atrocities in eastern Ukraine! It was lovely that he was able to have the front pages pretty much to himself when he was born. No doubt someday he will be sending the sort of kind condolence messages the Queen sends after tragedies. For now, let him enjoy the butterflies!

Great news for me! I've passed my Teaching English as a Second Language with distinction. Wow! I'm wild with joy. And to think it happens just one day before Prince George's birthday. Just wanted to let you know. I hope your exams went well too. :)Hugs,Monica, France

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